I must admit that having a baby has played absolute havoc on my body. I wasn’t naive in thinking it would be a picnic, nor did I have unrealistic expectations, but I also couldn’t have known just how my body would have changed.

I absolutely LOVED my pregnancy, despite the complications. In fact I had my BIGGEST revelation and I blogged about it.

Unfortunately in the last 3 weeks of my pregnancy, my beautiful, big clear-skinned belly got red, angry stretch marks from my pubic bone to just above my naval. From the day I found out I was pregnant (around 4/5 weeks) I lathered myself in tummy butter and oil religiously, twice a day. It sadly (in my case) didn’t help and since I’m prone to stretch marks, they happened. I was really upset about it.

I’m really glad I did my maternity shoot before the stretch marks arrived. It’s the last photos I have of my smooth skin. 

My skin elasticity is also really loose and of course I’ve been struggling to lose the weight – I still have about 18kgs to lose and have only managed to lose 7kgs so far. I was not one of those who lost weight thanks to breastfeeding. I put it down to not getting enough sleep, because I am eating well and trying to exercise twice a week (I’d love to do more, but I’m impressed I’m getting this right at all.)

There are another number of things that have happened to my body internally too and the only thing that makes me less depressed about it, is the fact that I have the most incredible, healthy baby boy.

Another relief is knowing that there is help out there. Aesthetics 11 is an advanced skin and body clinic, situated in Green Point, Cape Town, specialising in the latest aesthetic treatments, technology and products, for skin care, medical aesthetics, body contouring /slimming and laser hair removal, in collaboration with their Aesthetic Doctor.

I love how comfortable they make me feel. They’re not only professional, but they make you feel like you’re their bestie and they have your best interests at heart. They give a complimentary consultation to discuss their various offers, and work out exactly what you need and which treatment will be most beneficial to you.

They introduced me to their signature EVOLVE body shaping treatment, which combines the latest Venus Concept (MP)²body contouring and skin tightening treatment with an Endermologie Lymphatic drainage treatment. It shrinks localised fat deposits, tightens loose skin, smooths cellulite and fades stretch marks. It is especially great for the post pregnancy mommy.

This 100% painless, comfortable treatment is safe for all skin types and has no down time. Most clients receive a course of at least 6 to 8 weekly sessions – they key here is consistency. Try not to miss a session. The end result is a slimmer, firmer figure with a more defined shape, smoother, tighter skin and the improved appearance of cellulite and stretch marks.

So how does it work?

It combines two technologies for enhanced body shaping results:

1. Venus Concept (MP)2 is a non-invasive body contouring, skin tightening and cellulite reduction technology. It uses radiofrequency and magnetic fields, to target hard-to-hit problem areas that are resistant to diet and exercise, such as the tummy roll, love handles, bra bulges, knee folds and upper arms, as well as larger areas like the thighs and buttocks.I find it funny how it says “Freeze” in the name, but it actually feels like a hot-stone massage.
2. Endermologie lymphatic drainage is a 100% natural treatment that uses motorised roller technology to increase tissue circulation and lymphatic drainage, to assist with the Venus body shaping results. It feels like tiny little karate chops (like they do in a massage, but not nearly as vigourous.)

The treatment ends with the application of Bodyecrackle intensive anti-cellulite foam, a revolutionary mousse that assists in improving the appearance of Cellulite, skin texture and the ‘orange peel’ effect.It contains the new Crackle™ Technology which provides rapid and deep penetration of 12 active anti-cellulite ingredients, which boosts the metabolic stimulation of the tissues locally and improves the microcirculation and decongestion of the tissues.

Do you remember that crackle sweet you’d pop on your tongue and it was pop and crackle? Well it feels like that on your skin. I love it.

Here are some photos they supplied me with:

Here are some of the questions I had for Aesthetics 11 and what they had to say:

Is the treatment safe?

Yes radiofrequency and pulsed electromagnetic fields and endermologie have been used in medicine for many years and are proven, safe and effective technologies.

Can I do it during my lunch break?

Yes. There is absolutely no downtime so you can return to normal daily activities immediately.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for the treatment?

No pre- treatment preparation is required. It is best not to apply any lotions, creams or makeup before your treatment and remove all jewellery around the area being treated

How long does a treatment session last?

Each session lasts just over an hour. This includes the venus body treatment, the endermologie lymphatic drainage and preparation and post-treatment clean up.

What does the treatment feel like?

Venus treatments are delivered in a relaxing, massage-like session. The applicator will slowly get warmer until your skin reaches the needed temperature and stays within that temperature range for the duration of the treatment time. You therapist is able to fully adjust the system to maintain the required temperature while ensuring your comfort. Our patients often describe the treatment as feeling like a hot stone massage. Endermologie lymphatic drainage feels like a relaxing mechanical lymphatic massage.

Will it be painful?

No. Both treatments are relaxing, comfortable and 100% painfree and you may even fall asleep for a while.

I was excited about the idea of more sleep!

How long will the results last and are they permanent?

The treatments are cumulative. After your final treatment, your skin tightening and results will continue to improve for up to 3-4 months after the end of your course as the new healthy collagen is laid down. After that, one maintenance session every 3 months is recommended to keep up the collagen production, although some people enjoy a monthly treat. It is important to stick to a healthy diet and exercise.

I am currently on session number 5 – treating my stomach area and my back/love handles. We have been taking photos and while I’m being realistic about what to expect, I’m really looking forward to seeing and sharing my final results.

To book your free consultation:

www.aesthetics11.co.za

Tel: 086 132 4752

Email: info@aesthetics11.co.za

65 Main Road, Green Point

Social: @aesthetics11sa